PART III. Die Installation Errors:

Mismatched business / proof dies:

1956 -1963 half dollars with “Type 2” proof reverse

Definition: Subtle differences in design details often differentiate dies intended for business strikes and those intended for proof strikes. The accidental preparation of a business strike die as a proof die is a well-known phenomenon. Examples include the 1998-S and 1999-S proof cents with the “Close AM” reverse.

Between 1956 and 1963, business-strike Franklin halves and the 1956 proof issue can be found struck with mismatched dies. Type 1 was typically used on business strikes, while Type 2 was normally used on proofs starting in 1956. All years between 1956 and 1963 are known to have either reverse. Very few 1956 proofs show a Type 1 reverse and very few 1956 business strikes show a Type 2 reverse. The most noticeable difference in the design is seen on the eagle and the number of wing feathers.

Type 1: Displays a low-relief eagle. On the viewer’s left side (or the eagle’s right side), it has 4 wing feathers west of the perch. The opposite wing shows a 5th feather tip below the perch.

Type 2: Displays a more robust, well-defined eagle. On the left side, it has 3 wing feathers west of the perch. The opposite wing only has 4 feather tips on the right side.